An unsigned, dramatic oil on board dating from around 1810 of a merchantman convoy in heavy, broaching sea being a very typical composition for his work.
The main subject is partially dismasted with all but a rent forecourse remaining. It is being assaulted by the oceans wrath and looks like she will be on her beam-ends soon.

I have personally owned this painting for 12 years and purchased it in London as a Buttersworth (1768-1842). Like a significant amount of Buttersworths work, it is unsigned.

~ Thomas Buttersworth ~

Born on the Isle of Wight in May 1768, Thomas Buttersworth followed the tradition of English marine painting that had derived from the work of the Van de Veldes, using a low horizon and concentrating on the effects of light and air on his subject. His ability to portray ships with great accuracy stemmed from his own naval career, from 1795 to 1800, during which he saw active service off the Spanish Atlantic coast. Buttersworth drew on these experiences in his early work, typically painting large scale naval battles (John Wilmerding, American Marine Painting, 1987, p.88).